CANBERRA — A discussion paper released by ACT Chief Minister Jon Stanhope paves the way for formal recognition of same-sex unions in the ACT.

The paper encourages submissions from the community to ascertain which of three models — marriage, civil union or registration — is preferred by ACT residents. The closing date for input is August 19, 2005.

Stanhope told the Sydney Star Observer that “we want every citizen in the ACT to feel that their rights are acknowledged and respected” and that pursuing this avenue of inquiry was “only logical”.

The discussion paper can be viewed at < http://www.jcs.act.gov.au/eLibrary/papers/RecognitionofSameSexA HREF="mailto:Relationships-discussionpaper.pdf"><Relationships-discussionpaper.pdf>

Stephen Orchard

From Green Left Weekly, June 8, 2005.
Visit the Green Left Weekly home page.

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